Transfer Centre

Barcelona legend Rivaldo urges Lionel Messi to join Manchester City

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 27 August 2020

Rivaldo urges Lionel Messi to join Man City

Barcelona legend Rivaldo claims that Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is ideally suited to get the best out of Lionel Messi during the rest of his career.

Barcelona legend Rivaldo has suggested that want-away forward Lionel Messi should look to sign for Manchester City.

Having formally requested a transfer away from Camp Nou, the 33-year-old is now being linked with a number of top European clubs, who may have to pay £200m to win the race for the player.

However, with former boss Pep Guardiola in charge at Man City, Rivaldo has advised the Argentine to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking to Betfair, Rivaldo said: "Manchester City could be Messi's best option as his next club. He's 33 but his quality and talent are both unquestionable and I think he still has a few more years at the top. He could quickly start shining in England.

"Guardiola has deep knowledge of Messi's abilities and would find a solution to quickly incorporate him into the team and get the best from him. I even imagine Guardiola building the rest of his team around Messi.

"His talent can make the difference at any place and at any time, and I'm sure he could produce match-winning performances in the Premier League."

Father Jorge Messi has allegedly travelled to England to hold discussions with the Premier League giants.